Standing on the stage in Meany Hall, Alpha Gamma Delta’s Lexie Miller was awestruck when the master of ceremonies called her name, announcing her as Miss Greek 2009.

Miller also took home the prize for top fundraiser, after raising more than $10,000 — almost one-sixth of the total $61,000 raised by all 11 contestants.

After the announcement, Miller thanked last year’s winner, Priya Iyer, and her closest friends, who helped with her talent for the pageant ­­— a dance with piano accompaniment that shifted between ballet and modern hip-hop styles.

Since it began in 1986, the Miss Greek pageant has raised about $1.3 million for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

“I thought I was here for a beauty pageant last year,” said Jenni Hogan, who was on the panel of judges. “And then you realize how much money they’re making for a good cause, and it’s amazing.”

Chris Chan, the Delta Tau Delta fraternity alumnus who started Miss Greek, was also in attendance.

“This is great,” Chan said, “that this many women come out to support the girls and their sororities … recognizing the philanthropic efforts of these outstanding sorority women.”

Cynthia Fox and Morgan Mielenz took home second and first runner-up, respectively. Olivia Obernesser, who sang to piano accompaniment while showing a montage of photos of her personal heroes, won top talent. Among them was her little brother, 5, who raised $100 worth of change in a piggy bank to give to Obernesser’s fund.

“I always have said that if it wasn’t for the Hutch, I wouldn’t be here today,” said cancer survivor Trisha Grove in a speech during the event. “Your efforts aren’t just into infinity. They actually help people every day.”

Reach reporter Morgan Gard at news@dailyuw.com.